Ben Schmitt & His 1948 Moto Guzzi GTV

Our December 2016 cover bike is owned by Ben Schmitt, and we enjoyed shooting his 1948 Moto Guzzi GTV for this month’s cover. Ben is from Kearney, Missouri, and we had the opportunity to gather additional information about him and his bike. We also had fun shooting cover model Angie on Ben’s bike for this month’s cover. I’m sure you’ll also enjoy this month’s behind the scenes photos and video!

CC: Do you have any hobbies other than motorcycleing? Ben: Yes, I’m also into cars.

CC: Why do you ride? Ben: It’s fun, and I like it!

CC: How long have you been riding? Ben: I’ve been riding around 48-49 years.

CC: What was your first bike? Ben: My first bike was a 1969 Honda 250.

CC: How many bikes have you owned? Ben: Probably close to 100.

CC: How many bikes do you currently own? Ben: More than thirty now. Along with this 1948 Moto Guzzi GTV, I also own a 1979 Yamaha SR 500, which you featured on your May 2016 cover. I also have a 1972 Harley-Davidson FLH 1982 BMW R65, 1977 Yamaha RD400, 1987 Yamaha YZ490, 1983 Yamaha YZ490, 1984 Honda XR500R, 1984 Honda YR500R, 1975 Bultco Alpina, 1976 Husqvarna 360 Cross Country, 1973 CZ 400, 1974 Husqvarna 250 CR MAG, 1973 Husqvarna 250CR, two 1974 Husqvarna 250 WR, an assortment of Honda CR90s CR70s, a 250, and many others, which is almost too many to list.

CC: What do you like most about your 1948 Moto Guzzi GTV cover bike? Ben: It’s in original condition, and has many features that were ahead of its time.

CC: What is your dream bike? Ben: A Harley-Davidson XR750. I love the racing Heritage.

CC: What is your most memorable riding experience? Ben: Riding a friend’s Sportster when I was 16-years-old. No turning back after that!

CC: What is your least memorable riding experience? Ben: My least favorite is a crash in turn 13 at Road America. It hurt and left a mark!

CC: To what clubs or organizations do you belong? Ben: AHRMA. I also sponsor the Missouri Vintage Motocross Series.

CC: Which motorcycle rallies & events have you attended? Ben: I’ve been to many racing events and the National Biker Roundup. I always look forward to the October Vintage Race at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

CC: Do you prefer riding in a group or by yourself? Ben: No preference, but I don’t like riding with a slow-paced group.